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LEDA GANG BRGWNE 



EVA'S CHOICE 

AND OTHER POEMS 



By 
LEDA GANO BROWNE 




Cochrane Publishing Company 

Tribune Building 

New York 

1910 



C. V 






^ \ 



Copyright, IQIO, by 
Cochrane Publishing Co. 



« » 

» « 

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©CLA268050 



Eva's Choice 



Tender and true are memories that blend 
In later years with thought of school-day friends. 
The mist of passing years that intervene 
Cannot obscure those early friends and scenes ; 
In restful, dreamy hours they yet are here, 
The same familiar voices still we hear. 

To me one tone, one best remembered face 

In vision comes, with sweet, accustomed grace; 

Her face aglow with inspiration given, 

Her eyes, we thought, gave spirit light from heaven. 

I see her now with modest triumph pass, 

Above us all, arranged in Student's Class, 

No envious heart, pride wounded, suffered there; 

The prize was won by her, beloved and fair, 

On Eva's drooping lash trembled a tear. 

Whether from joy or grief did not appear, 

Except to those who knew her nature best. 

Knew that 'twas tender pity for the rest. 

The school dismissed, the usual path we take, 

Glad if the Spring in freshness is awake. 

The beaten path, that leads to woodland shade 

Our eager feet have with much practice made, 

Or in the freshness of the summer green 

Near by a lake and pleasure boat were seen. 

More joyous feet or gladsome voices heard. 

Ne'er vied with the freedom of woodland bird. 

Sweet Eva, then, would sometimes whisper low, 



'Tet others sail, and we alone will go, 
And find our own perennial bower, 
And, for our teacher, wildwood flowers." 
How like her own, kind, generous heart 
To give, to love were of her life a part. 
Seated within the fragrant, sheltered bower, 
To her it seemed a sweet enchanting hour. 
Music of flowing stream and bursting bu 1, 
And soothing murmur of the breeze-stirred wood. 
The gushing song of bird, and grateful shale. 
On Eva's spirit-sight bright visions made, 
"What charm, what visions in a summer wood. 
What grateful love in soul-exalted mood ! 
We might believe the very angels near, 
Did we in spirit thought listenmg hear," 
Thus Eva mused, half serious, half gay, 
Free as a bird on wing the heavenward way, 
"Oh, no," she answered, "genius is not mine; 
True genius hath more royal flight and sign. 
The Muses wait, more kind to modest vouth, 
Too soon to flatter, or reveal the truth." 
''Not so, not so," a wiser voice doth say, 
'Tf God endues a Soul, sincerely pray 
The precious gift be not bestowed in vain. 
Genius, by thought and study largeness gains." 

Time has indulgent been to Eva's claims. 

Her charms increased, and strength to youthful aims 

Such aims as dreams instill in gifted minds. 

With genius joined with impulse pure and kind. 

vShe dreamed of generous deeds and useful years. 

For others' grief, her sympathy and tears. 

Three sisters ; two companionship complete. 

The third may fail a welcome smile to meet. 

And thus alone, her dreams were undisturbe 1 

\'\ her child-visions, calls to duty heard. 



Tho^ love to friends, a grateful love, was given. 

Her heart too full, she gave the more to heaven ; 

In compensation seemed the gift divine, 

The rich endowment of poetic mind, 

Only by heaven's aid her spirit taught, 

Comes inspiration for productive thought. 

"Think not thyself a poet yet, my child. 

Be not by flattering friends beguiled, 

I know full well thy eager wish and will 

Some visionary dreamer's place to fill ! 

Too tender and too sensitive thy heart, 

'T would sufifer, from the faithful critic's art, 

As the youthful aspirations of thy spirit might, 

Struck down to earth, while heavenward in thy flight. 

Scarce canst thou bear thy mother's chiding word. 

And I shall wound, when thou hast truly heard. 

Thy anxious father's estimate of thee ! 

A struggling, unfledged bird or buzzing bee 

Whose feeble noise has scarcely yet been heard, 

As well might strive to aid some worthy cause 

To aid the world to change its adverse laws 

As a child, with only half-developed brain! 

Dismiss such thoughts, and be my child again, 

Children have need far more to be restrained. 

From mischief, lest they harm a needful cause, 

The world will stand without thy aid or law^s." 

She playful twined her arms about his neck ; 

*Tn your sharp ridicule I find some wit. 

If I'm so dull, how could I find a bit? 

But, dear papa, pardon my trifling now. 

When we, at eve, round the home altar bow, 

My earnest prayer I breathe to Heaven 

That I may use the little talent given; 

Did not our Father, in His plan divine, 

Bestow some gift on all, strength and health like mine, 



Or, nobler faculty for nobler use? 

From His great heart pity and love o'erflows, 

Would ask a cup of water for his foes. 

Can not my hands, tho' young and weak and frail, 

Give just a little help, where need prevails?" 

"Your words, dear child, are tender, true and brave. 

May such good thoughts thee from imprudence save." 

He, conscious of the pain, regretful caused, 

By falling tears, made then a sudden pause, 

"Quite useless now," he said, ''this to prolong." 

Soon she smiled again, and murmured a song, 

Like sun and sudden shadow o'er the field 

To grief or pleasure would her spirit yield. 

In her room alone, her favorite retreat, 

vShe communed with her conscience, sure there to meet. 

If wrong, on her part, her conscience decide, 

To sue for a pardon, excuse was denied, 

Without fear of reproach, her father she seeks, 

Tho' deeper the flush that colored her cheeks. 

Her voice is gentle and modest her mien, 

"Will my father forgive? My error I've seen: 

Your wisdom I reverence, my dreaming I know, 

But visions persistent, since years ago, 

I yield to your judgment, I pray you forget. 

Will you pardon, dear father? Can you love me yet?" 

On her low bowed head his hand kindly laid, 

And rested there long as if prayer was made ; 

The mother present gave approving smile, 

And love again the evening hours beguile. 

Next morn all met at the breakfast hour. 

Where music and prayer had uplifting power, 

The father, Judge Gray, in his broad arm-chair 

With face benign, and silver-gray hair; 

A tall, gracious matron sat at the helm 

A loving and much beloved queen of her realm ; 



A lingering tint of youth on her cheek, 

And eyes with a glow love only doth speak, 

At her right sits her daughter, Sophia, her aid, 

And one more faithful heaven hath not made ! 

Her blue eyes watchful, earnest and bright. 

Ready to see and do what is right. 

Gracious and grave, with slightly caremarked brow — 

The cares of others, not her own, we avow — 

Her love, like the sunshine, pervaded the home ; 

Where her presence abounded pleasure would come ; 

A charm seemed about her, filling the air. 

That seemed to give token that peace was there 

Whence all trouble and grief would ready depart. 

As if quickly absorbed by one's own kind heart ! 

At left of Judge Gray sat Kate with her smile, 

Her wit from each heart all care doth beguile, 

Her fancies so brilliant with judgment rare, 

No circle complete if Kate was not there, 

Her wit brought delight but never a pain, 

Too tender her heart wit's triumph to gain. 

Next sits sweet Eva, my schoolmate and friend. 

Delightful subject of memorial pen — 

Just now as she sits in thoughtful repose 

Like a fresh white lily with blush of the rose 

Silent and musing, as thoughts were to her 

More worth than gay converse could ever confer, 

She seems in a sphere with bright visions the while 

Where angel surroundings her thoughts beguile. 

*7ust one year ago,'' Kate sudden exclaimed, 
^^We were tumbling and tossing over the main. 
I long, how I long to be there again !" 
Excitement and pleasure for self or friend 
'Tis a passion, I know, but cannot defend.' 
The hope gives her cheeks a bright rosy glow . 
''Oh, say, dear papa, how soon shall we go ? 

7 



I long for the time, Vm all ready to go/^ 

At last the day arrived to sail from home. 

''What joy, what joy,'' she sings, ''to roam, to roam '" 

The ocean is crossed, and friends hasten near; 

Eva cares not in the crowd to appear. 

The son and heir of a friend of Judge Gray— 

A nobleman known in their college day — 

Among the throng, with earnest, happy face, 

Was first to greet the Judge with modest grace 

His anxious glance around divulged the truth 

That, not content, he seeks some friend of youth. 

Just then, Kate's smiling face not far away 

He joyous sees and clears the obstructed way. 

She greets him with a charming smile and jest; 

"We have not learned which land we love the best — 

Old England, with her bully name and shores. 

Or Yankee land, where our eagle screams and soars; 

So, you see, we spend a happy season there. 

Then longing come to breathe your foggy air! 

Italian charms allure us thither now. 

So here we make our earhest farewell bow." 

The sun came smiling as Venice arose. 
The land-locked sea was yet in repose; 
A single gondola came silent in sight. 
As if lately emerged from the shadows of night. 
Judge Gray had returned with family, all 
From an evening's brilliant Italian ball. 
Was later aroused by his footman's call. 
Who passed to him a dainty,crested note. 
Plainly from whom, did these signs denote, 
The son of his friend, the nobleman known. 
The note was addressed to the father alone. 
It was formal in style, and brief in word. 
Honest and frank, yet the Judge demurred. 

8 



To grant the permission, for ''friendship's sake/' 

To call on his daughter, only friends to make. 

But why the sentiment of ''friendship'' awake? 

What view of friendship does the young man take? 

In former years, in social life, abroad, 

The Judge had seen this handsome young lord, 

By his noble face, and attractive mien. 

With well-bred associates always seen; 

His eyes had followed the youth in his train, 

With interest awakened, but no thought of gain. 

This the Judge's reply, informal in style : 

"Your idea of friendship, its duties, its claims. 

It envelops itself in various names. 

Pardon the question, it is an ancient thought. 

That honest hearts to wiser heads have brought." 

Young Paul's reply was prompt, sincere and frank: 

" 'Tis a sacred relation, its claim for me, 

To defend, if a friend in need should be. 

To exchange our thoughts, to improve the time, 

In converse on themes pure, uplifting, refined, 

To promote life's pleasure loyal as brothers, 

To increase respect for one another. 

No habits indulged that a gentleman scorns. 

And, if need be, each the other reforms. 

My reply, dear sir, you may think profuse — 

Our College class has pledged its constant use." 

Eva had gained a long cherished desire, 

A teacher of Greek; the Greek "poetic fire," 

She thought, was enfeebled by English tongues. 

In her dreams she had lived the Greeks among. 

And heard their sweet songs in their native tongue. 

"I pray," the father said, in covert smile, 

"That only Greek her eager thoughts beguile." 

"Alas ! alas !" Miss Katie laughing said, 

"My poor Sophia ! Our lofty hopes are dead ! 

9 



Must leave aspiring plans of princely mien, 

Our palace homes so plain in visions seen, 

And husbands we claimed in our daylight dreams, 

Have sailed away on floating clouds, it seems ; 

Our little poet sister, in her pride. 

Has with her noble prince our claims denied !" 

After the merry laugh had passed away 

The Judge, with dignity, essayed to say : 

''Your plain allusion is unwise, my dear. 

No lover by you should be chosen here. 

You are, I trust, too loyally enshrined. 

Too true to gallant warriors of our line." 

''You can not know," Kate said, "the dreadful cost 

n we do not gain a heart, our heads are lost !" 

Kate's mirth, as usual, cast the cloud about. 

And turned the "silver lining" inside out. 

Greek lessons controlled one day in the week ; 
The students agreed of naught else to speak, 
When duty and study were mastering Greek. 
The intellect soared brighter and higher. 
Borne up by the heat of poetic fire. 
To read Greek verse was Eva's school-life aim, 
Paul had been given a Greek scholar's fame. 
'Twas wonder to Eva what Paul had attained. 
Congenial in mind, their purpose the same. 
Her teacher, companion, the son of a lord, 
Had learned that honor with birth should accord. 
Paul, the teacher, at the first study hour. 
Assumed his position with pretence of power. 
Asked "if Sappho's ode she would hear him read ;" 
She smiling assured, "'twere pleasure indeed." 
With all the poems Greek women have claimed. 
This ode of Sappho's with triumph is named. 
The heroes of Homer Paul knew every one, 
Had delved for them all, in shadow^ and sun. 

10 



In college, at home, with companions he cho^e, 

And Eva, amazed at the knowledge he shows. 

Is awed by his knowledge, wisdom and worth. 

And ponders how such can be useless on earth, 

His habits so pure, so ''royal his mind," 

She deemed him more noble than birth could define. 

The stories of Helen, of Juno, the Gods, 
Of the mighty Olympus, his '-powerful nods" ! 
She, too, had read in her pure English tongue. 
But she wanted the sound of the old Greek tongue. 

Whether Judge Gray o'er ocean billows dwelt. 
Or in ancestral home, content he felt. 
If 'neath his care, like gathered brood of doves, 
Each one was there responsive to his love, 
Since long ago, when Eva felt alone. 
Her love of study and repose had grown. 
Much love and much care to her were given, 
Her baby dreams linked her in thought to heaven, 
Saw in dreams ''angel wings," but no "little feet," 
"They turn," she lisped, "to tiss me, and to meet." 
Her nightly visions, fraught with childish joy. 
She longed to see and to join their employ. 
Later, her dreams inspired her thought and pen, 
To do good, to be good and blessed like them. 

When twice eight years had matured her face ' 

And left their endowment of beauty and grace. 

So blended were they, one must study to tell 

If grace of mind did the other excel. 

Did she sit in repose, her bright eyes of blue 

Held some beautiful thoughts expressing to you ; 

Her small hands in aid, just gently astir, 

Her brown head quick turned in a strange little whir 

To shake back a curl, that looked then like gold, 

11 



From a forehead where thoughts were quick to unfold- 
You would know that beauty of rarest kind 
Shines in the face and pervades the mind. 

A shadow had passed o'er the church and home — 

The death of a dear one, one left alone ! 

Twas the rector, beloved by the church and revered ; 

To duty's call the faithful wife adhered 

Till, alas ! when too late, with grief it was known. 

Too many duties on her heart had been thrown. 

Eva was asked by the sorrowing one 

That a few simple lines be written and sung. 

Her reply, ''Both duty and love will impel,'' 

But a story so sad, what pen can tell ! 

Eva said as she rose, in her sweet low voice, 

''Just a few simple lines, the bereaved one's choice." 

*'When first we saw the sweet young wife. 

The rose was on her cheek, 
A healthy glow was in her eyes. 

And vigor in her speech. 

'Her heart revealed angelic traits. 

And thought of guardian care. 
The grace and love in which she moved 

Were like a mother's prayer. 

"A benediction in her smile, 

And vigor in her thought. 
One's own heart longed then to confide 

The burden which it brought. 

"Alas, such burdened hearts too oft, 

Sought sympathy from hers. 
Till now we see the rose is gone! 

The pale lips speech defers ! 

12 



"Still, struggling on as duty called, 

Impressed by grace and love, 
Till angel messengers from God 

Called her to rest above !" 

One year had passed, our friend and hero Paul 

Had proved the noble youth he seemed to all. 

Spring time was here, with teeming beauty fraught, 

And spirits glad of generous gifts it brought. 

Spirits that feel the thrill of beauty given, 

And all of earth, sublimely nearer heaven. 

A welcome Paul had found in each kind heart, 

Of those for whom his interest, apart 

From ''friendship's" claim, had with time increased. 

His slightest act and word proved no decrease; 

With courteous language and voice that pleased. 

And dignity of mien and his accustomed ease. 

With Eva meets again, and both are pleased. 

The Judge explains; Paul, with attention fixed 

On what is said ; in truth, not all unmixed ; 

''Our evenings, in this far ofif, foreign home. 

Away from friends, who care not thus to roam. 

Are not so full that time may not be found 

For intellectual as for social round. 

We now propose from poets old to read, 

Or quote or discuss their merits as we see. 

Our pleasure is that you our guest will be. 

The choice in selection for all should be free." 

Paul gladly accepts, and the time is named — 

For extensive reading Paul is already famed. 

Father Chaucer's genius is clouded now. 

By his ancient tongue, all moderns avow, 

Small pleasure is gained by seeking his thoughts; 

The world knows his genius as the ancients taught. 

"A quotation from Chaucer will Eva now read ?" 

Eva rea 's Chaucer's "Sacred Duty to Forbear." 

13 



''One thing, sir, full safely dare I freely say, 
That loving friends each other must obey, 
If they would long remain in company : 
Love will not be constrained by mastery. 
When mastery cometh, the God of Love, anon, 
Beateth his wing, and farewell; he is gone. 
Love is a thing as any spirit free, 
Women by nature wish for liberty, 
And so do men, to speak truth, one and all. 
And not to be constrained as in a thrall." 

LTnconscious picture ! that all admiring saw, 

In Eva's face or dress seemed no disturbing flaw, 

Her pure white robe, so simple, so refine:!, 

Her glowing eyes expressive of her mind, 

As with book in hand, she seemed so angel fair, 

Chaucer's best thoughts were half forgotten there. 

''Spencer, a poet of that glorious time. 

Whose genius had made Queen Elizabeth divine. 

As did all poets invoking a rhyme ! 

From Spencer's fine work 'The Fairie Queen,' 

The purest moral lessons may be seen ; 

From Spencer," the Judge said, "to-morrow night 

Please join us, and find intellectual delight. 

A simple line or a sentence may hold 

More truth, sometimes, than a page will unfold." 

Far back, in the pretty, luxurious room, 
Apart from their guests ; returning there soon. 
Were Eva and Paul, discussing their Greek, 
Or, it may be, some sweeter language they speak, 
They clasp hands just in a natural repose, 
With a cool "Good night," as the doors all close. 



14 



A fine morning sail on the sunlight bay 

Gave all delight on the following day, 

All the young home friends and the foreign guests, 

Then, the Pompeiian statues ere they rest — 

Those rare bronzed statues from Pompeii brought, 

And other relics modern science has sought. 

No day is lost if some knowledge be gained. 

If knowledge be such as wisdom retains, 

There, pleasure and knowledge both were received. 

If Love, Greek had conquered, all were deceive 1, 

A shadow seemed resting on Kate's pale face, 

Which all, with our Eva, seemed anxious to trace. 

When the Judge again welcomed his young guests there 

The glory of Spencer seemed filling the air ; 

Each held a volume of Spencer, gold bound. 

A book is not proof of a head profound ; 

'Twas then a confession their part to prepare. 

Was not in the head, but in the book there. 

''To what learned critics of Spencer have said 
In your study, I trust your thoughts have been led ; 
Please," said the Judge, ''your impressions relate. 
What you've gained from his life, genius and fate." 
Then Paul slowly arose, with thoughtful brow, 
As if thus to speak he scarcely knew how ; 

"Spencer's birth, learning and genius combined 

Prepared him for all that heaven designed ; 

A poet uplifting, moral, sublime, 

His genius inspired to noblest themes, 

While his thoughts seemed imbued with heavenly dreams : 

There's pleasure and wisdom for all who pursue 

His visions of beauty; he paints us the view. 

Till our souls find the height he himself hath found 

And listens for music of heavenly sound." 

15 



Paul's friend with confidence willing rose, 

Repeating grand thoughts from Spencer's verse and prose 

With ease and eloquence and natural grace; 

None but noble thoughts with Spencer have place. 

Next. Sophia recites from Spencer's dream 

Always in prose or verse his pleasant theme, 

For Love, as lord of truth and loyalty, 

Lifting himself out of the lowly dust, 

*'On golden plumes up to the purest sky," 

Draws loyal hearts in innocent reply. 

Then Kate (we thought her happy mood concealed; 

To sober thought not prone was she to yield) 

Recites, Spencer's heroines hath charms the heart to bind. 

Whether of earthly mould or more divine. 

Beauty with him was most enchanting theme. 

But always had a moral in the dream, 

On every page the thoughtful reader finds, 

Some thoughts that please and elevate the mind. 

Judge Gray his thanks expressed for choice each made 

That none had their chosen part delayed. 

Eva reads Spencer's view of all vain things : 

^'Beauty at times of heavenly vision sings. 
Yet on the lips shall fade and fall away, 
That golden hair, those sparkling stars so bright, 
Shall turn to dust, and lose their goodly light, 
But that fair light that kindleth lover's fire 
Shall never be extinguished, or decay, 
For it is heavenly born and can not die." 

The hour for converse was pleasantly passed, 

Tho' remembered with grief 'twas nearly the last. 

The Judge's absence from home too prolonged had been. 

Yet never regret was real as then : 

The regret that Rome was but half explored, 

And the friends to be left so much adored ! 

16 



Eva wrote in her notebook, ''My talk to you here, 

So sacred, so private, no eye can be near." 

Her own sacred thoughts, herself and her prayer, 

And Heaven only knew the secrets there. 

Not Katie, so trusted, so ever beloved. 

But the leaves — turn them o'er — they silently prove, 

By the tear stains left, too much there of love, 

Of one thing, of one thing, angels are sure, 

Not a thought, there enclosed, but is heavenly pure. 

Eva notes later their eventful day: 

''We have driven at last o'er the Appian way. 

That famous Appius Claudius road. 

From Rome towards Naples still traveled and good, 

A pavement of granite of small diamond form, 

A thousand years traveled, by travel unharmeJ. 

The first time to see Rome's seven famed hills 

The air filled with music of distant rills. 

The music of fountains, chiming all day, 

Sending forth ever their bright silver spray. 

Bathing madonnas so numerous there, 

Which seem still repeating our dear Lord's prayer. 

The churches, devoutly, five on a street. 

And beggars, poor beggars, that travelers meet ! 

And the home of famed Nero in golden sheen. 

Whom tradition remembers by the name of 'fiend.' 

The same wicked hand that set Rome on fire, 

While Rome was burning was playing his lyre ! 

Genoa's palaces in splendor rise. 

Higher and higher as to kiss the skies, 

The loftiest and grandest, in European land, 

Nowhere we find such daring structures stand. 

Except in height, now, in our own dear land." 

The time has come to bid farewell to Rome, 
With all his dear ones, for their native home, 
A grand old home in olden times arranged, 

17 



Dear to them all — yet healthful love of change 

With what a foreign land can teach and give; 

Some months abroad each year they chose to live. 

Eva, when three more anxious days had passed, 

Unlocked her secret notes and wrote: ''At last, 

At last I write farewell to him and Rome. 

Oh, why regret and why feel thus alone ! 

Are tears for self? Have I unworthy grown? 

Do I forget all sorrow but my own? 

Have failed my hopes of strength and purpose high 

To yield my love and on God's help rely ? 

Is not His love. His dear approval more 

Than human love? its blessedness in store, 

The blessedness that I should know forever more ! 

Might not this love — Paul's love — grow dim, 

And mine, this heart inflaming love for him? 

O could the light of joyous years depart, 

But no ! I will not dream, but rule my heart ! 

Be master of myself!" then bowed her heal 

And wept, in tearful, earnest, trustful prayer, 

Till she was calm. A sense of help was there. 

''Help now, dear Father, this I ask. 
Strength, Thou alone can give, 
True Master of my struggling soul, 
Let Thy dear influence live. 

"The influence of Thy love and care 

That Faith and Hope have won. 
Turn, Thou, my selfish love towards Thee 

As when my life begun." 

With this sweet trust she gained repose. 
With tearful eyes her private journal closed ; 
Summoned to meet, some social duties' calL 
Was agitated much, thinking one was Paul, 

18 



She quick erased all evidence of tears 

With calm, sweet face and mien appears. 

Would Paul much grieve, she thought, and wisely turn 

To thoughts beyond himself and trusting learn 

The mastery of soul — reach higher plain, 

And broader views of life and purpose given? 

To all the world, sooner than to Paul confide 

The thoughts just written, and in grief denied. 

And Paul ! were all the stars before his eyes. 

Would only see one radiant star arise. 

A thousand things were in his mind to say. 

Still silent as before — the same delay ! 

To break the spell — was Kate at home ? he asked. 

How often truth in doubting hearts is masked. 

With Kate's alluring smile and charming way, 

There seemed enough for Paul himself to say ! 

As if music and light had together burst. 

Into words for which they all were athirst, 

The hour had quickly flown and left unsaid, 

So much that lingered still in heart and head ! 

Eva was pleased, since now it was clear 

That Paul was happy when Katie was near; 

Her nature so cheerful, her wit ever bright, 

So gentle her heart, all gave him delight. 

Eva soon learned by the language «)f soul 

A secret of Katie's that never was told, 

A secret that shocked her, bewildered and grieved, 

Her heart cried in sorrow, ''Has Katie deceived?" 

So frank, so confiding, so sincere and true, 

Eva in grief to her mother's arms flew, 

And sobbed on her breast and asked if she knew, 

Her mother smiled softly, ''My child, are you mad? 

Paul is so noble, we're sincerely glad !" 

"Paul knows it not, mother, 'tis love unreturned !" 

*'You shock me !" she said, ''for you PaiiVs concern, 

19 



Is Kate so weak ? You must be deceived ! 

But the mother's heart was not yet relieved, 

With Eva's assurance her fears increased : 

''I hope Paul is blind to her folly, at least !" 

Judge Gray sudden entered and thoughtful reclined 

As if in some perplexity of mind. 

''Eva, retire, for a while," he kindly said, 

'To a new surprise, my thoughts now are led. 

And I need advice from a wiser head." 

Eva gently arose and left her parents there. 

''A surprise for you, mother, I will declare ! 

Paul confesses his love, asks for Eva, now," 

The Judge smiling said: ''Shall I answer, and how? 

She seems too young — too fond of books and pen. 

It seems Eva thinks of Paul only as friend, 

His confession of love the friendship may end." 

The wife replies, in anxious mother tones : 

"Her feeling toward Paul I have not truly known ; 

His noble birth and character combined. 

His high ideals and cultivated mind. 

Fit him for any place that Fame designed ; 

Affection might conquer, but Eva's life dream 

Seems never of marriage, but nobler theme. 

With her, life, we know, has serious claims. 

Her motto, 'Do good as heaven ordains.' " 

"Paul says, his anxious hours bring him no rest, 

To confess his love first to me seemed best, 

I deem this of honor a manly test." 

"You know not the secret our household contains ; 
It was better you knew e'er you see Paul again," 
Mrs. Gray repeats ; what she thinks he should know 
His pale lips and cheek and his keen eyes aglow 
Tell of a passion his friends scarcely know ! 
Pride spread her broad wings over his heart ! 
Then fluttered a while for Love to depart! 

20 



From thy heart, noble Judge, can Love get away? 

Of tenderness made and no part of clay? 

''Has my child lost her reason, her maidenly worth? 

Has she stooped from the stars to the baseness of earth 

To ojfcr her love, yes, to urge it in trade ! 

As with common tradesmen a bargain is made?" 

''Oh, father! dear father!" Eva earnest exclaims, 

With love such as Kate's no earth-castes are named. 

It knows not of birth, fame, riches or pelf ! 

It loses all reason ! As now, dost thyself ! 

No sunbeam is purer, or brighter than Kate, 

Her secret I learned by stealth, but too late. 

Only pity I know — blame is not in my heart. 

The pure angel's love, 'tis of heaven a part, 

'Tis Kate's own secret, divine in its might 

So sacred she keeps it quite veiled from the light. 

'Tis far from Paul's konwledge as gold from our mine. 

To her secret, dear father, let us be blind ! 

Her love will not humble or degrade, but will bind 

My heart, in its sympathy closer to hers. 

As her happier fate your scorn defers. 

Paul in ignorance, I think, will remain, 

Till known to you without regret or pain." 

"Let this rest for the present," her father commands ; 

*'A question more vital our thought demands. 

Of Paul I must speak. Did you know of his call?" 

''Of the import," she said, "I know not at all." 

''Reply to the question, I ask it for Paul," 

Said the Judge, in forceful, masterful way. 

"Oh, I cannot," she said, "I cannot today." 

"You promised me once, my choice yours should be. 

Ihen answer him not, refer him to me," 

She pleads with him long in her own sw^eet w^ay. 

"I should grieve you both, were I now to say 

The dream of my childhood; life's happiest hour 

21 



Has lived In my thoughts and still has power, 

To point the way, the highest, truest and best 

The best for me, if my own Hfe be blest." 

''Be sincere with Paul, he should not be wronged 

By suspense already too much prolonged/' 

'Tove has its doubts,'' she said, ''and Hfe its claims; 

We have no assurance that either remains. 

The voice of pity, duty, human rights 

Have theirs — the soul must mount the heights, 

To learn which way wisdom divine doth call, 

And should it, Hstening true, hear message call. 

What soul would dare to disregard the voice 

And choose his own, ignoring higher choice?" 

As white as the rose in her Parian vase 

When Paul was announced was her lovely face ; 

Tho' his love and esteem had been so intense. 

Had long filled his heart, his delicate sense. 

While yet in doubt of proprieties' claim 

And converse so free, love had not been named. 

He could not confess, he feared to surprise. 

But a hundred times love had been seen in their eyes, 

As soon understood as their lessons in Greek. 

How plain 'twas revealed tho' absent in speech 

But now, as they meet, as he entered the room 

He kissed her brow ; was confession too soon ? 

His sudden confession surprised and oppressed; 

She burst into tears, hid her tears on his breast. 

"I am weak and nervous today," she said. 

"A sad restless morning we all have had !" 

Her sobbing and tears she could not restrain. 

Like a pent up stream bursting forth in the sun 

Revealing its strength by the swiftness it run. 

As pale as herself, Paul her two hands caught 

And tenderly pressed them, and earnest besought. 

"Tell me, dear Eva, if the fault be my own, 

22 



If I have erred tell me how to atone/^ 

More calm she stood in affected repose, 

Her voice, as she spoke, just faintly arose, 

Growing stronger and calmer. At length she said : 

''Of your love and esteem my heart is glad ; 

My world does not hold another like you. 

With a nature so noble, loyal and true 

To whom as brother, loved brother and friend, 

My heart's admiration I trusting extend. 

You have helped me in study, uplifted my thought, 

Assistance like yours gold never has brought. 

Accept as a sister the love of my heart, 

The strong tender bond no life-change shall part. 

Forgive if IVe erred in withholding unfair 

The dream of my chilhood, grown stronger by prayer 

To be useful in life, to comfort, to bless. 

To aid the weary, who suffer for rest, 

The sick and neglected, bereaved and oppressed. 

The world has so few, who have freedom and time, 

Who had in their childhood a message like mine, 

The message in dreams that seemed then divine, 

Which hope then and thought and purpose inspired, 

That made bright the path that my heart has desired. 

That has lived in my heart with the hopes of youth 

And Fve treasured it here, like virtue and truth." 

''My love ! my Eva ! can the end be like this ! 

Must my hopes dissolve like morning mist ! 

These living blooms in beauty and grace. 

The blue sky above us, where God's love we trace. 

With the visions of angels happy and pure. 

Are not more real, to my eyes more sure, 

Than the love IVe seen in thy heaven true eyes ! 

Must it be a part of the sorrow that lies 

On my heart to know that my soul was deceived, 

That my spirit sense, so acute, has received 

23 



False message from thine ? Have I taken for truth 

In presumption, Hke a vain, ignorant youth 

What was only a shadow, I thought divine ? 

O never a vision vanished like mine/' 

''Oh, Paul V She looked straight in his honest eyes, 

His impetuous words her trembling lip denies. 

With sad, grieved tone, her pale sorrowing face 

Distracted, he caught in his tender embrace. 

She turned from him then, in silence free, 

''I have trusted my heart's emotions to thee. 

Oh, let friendship still be the sweet pure bond, 

Inspiration for nobler purpose beyond, 

For the claims your talents and powers can make 

To uplift, to ennoble and forceful awake 

Ambition the highest and truest and best, 

Only this, I know, at the last, can give rest." 

Her words calmed and changed him, his spirit rose. 

To heights that noble spirit only knows, 

To love's purest sphere, angelic, divine. 

That ennobles the heart and enriches the mind. 

He clasped her hand and besought her to rest, 

''We will learn," he said, "what is highest and best." 

And was gone — but only to meet as before. 

Thoughtful she sought her room and closed her door. 

Then she opened her journal, half in grief, 

In her confusion of mind, half relief 

Sought what her troubled spirit always found 

When Life's joys or griefs were most profound, 

If doubt, her troubled heart pervade, she sought 

The Friend who ever hath comfort brought. 

Found prayer a spirit light towards heaven, 

Introspection her habit, when thought was given. 

To life's daily events and much may depend 

On herself, to honest approve or condemn, 

Kate's love, unsought, was a cloud hanging o'er 

24 



The spirit of those who indignant deplore. 

Her heart's treasured secret forgetful of pride, 

And proprieties' claim had thus been denied. 

She had defended what her father disproved, 

And conscience condemned for her own and Kate's wrong 

Her own disregard of what to parents belong. 

Love and pity for Kate, her only defence ; 

Her own heart's renouncement was wrongful pretense. 

Why defend Kate, and thus Paul so defraud, 

''I am guilty! the proof is my conscience and God!" 

Love and pity, she claimed, were laws of heaven, 

Her pity for Kate, which her heart had given, 

Was woman's cause, love is of her life a part, 

Her love, like her life-pulse, is deep in her heart. 

Without it her life is like bloom without sun. 

Or a lonely home when it shelters but one ; 

The delight in her dreams, forever endures, 

'Tis allied so to heaven, exalted and pure, 

Like the stars that always their glory emit, 

Tho' obscured by the sun when its glory admits. 

While life has for man ambition for fame. 

Has cares and strife and more motives for gain, 

His love, if lost tho' it seemeth profound, 

Proves not, like woman's, a fatal wound. 

All on board ! the steamer saluteth the sea. 
Judge Gray is there with wife and daughters three, 
And Paul, with many friends, to say farewell. 
With kindly thoughts to ask and hastily tell 
To express the wish for the blessings of heaven. 
The clasping of hands, the tear-dimmed eye, 
The tremulous voice, and the last good-bye. 
And naught remains of the eventful day 
But memory's shade and the chilling spray 



25 



The sleeping buds have burst to gorgeous bloom, 

The rivulets freed from their ice-bound tomb 

Are grateful and joyous for the freedom given, 

The trees in new verdure climb towards heaven; 

Young lambs in the field skip round in their joy; 

The music is heard where the birds employ 

Their mates to join in their song of delight ; 

Tis a glad uplifting, grateful sight, 

The flower-crowned Queen, Queen Spring as she rides. 

In her gorgeous chariot with Flora beside. 

One more annual pageant like this will pass 

Ere Paul and those friends their hands will clasp. 

The thunder crashed the brave steamer along. 
Louder, more terrible, the sound is prolonged. 
The lightning's flash on the wild troubled sea 
Was like an ocean on fire, and gorgeous to see. 
The deck was astir with a frightened throng! 
Awakened from dreams but three hours long. 
The steward rushed forth from a state-room door 
Where a mother and child were peaceful before. 
Gave alarm of a death ! a mother's death ! 
The lightning's victim! and the child bereft! 
A dainty, refined, beautiful girl. 
Of three years or more, with gold-tangled curls, 
A sweet, pure face, like the mother's above. 
Might call angelic, just a face to love. 
Her white, trembling arms she lovingly clasps 
Round Eva's fair neck, but continued to gasp, 
"Mamma! where are you gone? to leave me alone !" 
With such pleading eyes and entreating tone. 
The moist, pitying eyes, all watching about. 
Seeming too strong for tears, but tears will out, 
Where hearts are tender, and loving, and kind. 
As often thus, with strong and cultured minds. 
The next day revealed more knowledge there ; 

26 



The mother, affected by thunder and glare, 

A weak heart, and suffering from mal de nier, 

Caused the sudden death ; and the sea, now her rest. 

The duty discharged, as was duty's behest, 

Benevolent thought to the child was turned. 

The beautiful child is now in respose. 

Her small hands rest on the dainty white robe, 

Her long silken lashes on her rose-tinted cheek. 

Her red lips just parted as ready to speak, 

Her soft golden curls, caressing her breast, 

As if quite conscious and loved there to rest. 

One dainty foot has escaped from lace folds 

As if guarding a treasure commissioned to hold. 

There was no lack of arms or hearts to receive. 

But already Judge Gray a purpose conceived. 

Eva was soothing the now waking child. 

That looked at the strangers in wonder awhile, 

Then reached her small arms for Eva's embrace. 

Pressed her cheek lovingly 'gainst Eva's fair face. 

Apart from his honorable name. Judge Gray 
Had wealth and a home, with ample to pay, 
Many times over, any claims that might rise. 
The child should share freely affectionate ties. 
As freely and fully as the rights of his own. 
News came at last, after many questions had flown, 
The mother, a widow,, born in a fair clime. 
High born, alone, had claims demanding her time. 
In our land — ''claims of great value," 'tis said. 
The child was named Mai, as the record read. 
The name Mai well pleased the family all. 
Henceforth little Mai was rightly installed. 
The precious part of her wealth was the love 
That she gained, and from prayers sent above. 
Nothing was strange in that elegant home 
To which the long absent owners had come, 

27 



Nothing attracted little Mai*s tired eyes, 
She gazed not about, complained not, or cried, 
But silently followed, with weary look. 
Each movement, each way, that Eva took. 
Eva's thoughts turned to the science of mind 
In science; then there was nothing to find, 
That could solve an experience so strange, 
So in concord with what, till now, was ungaine 1, 
Some object in life, above self and self-gain. 
Something to do by which life could attain 
To a blessing for those who suffering remain 
Among earth's unfortunate, unhappy souls. 
Who struggle and fail, before reaching the goal ! 
Has this motherless child to my arms been sent 
For the purpose, on which my soul was bent? 

''O dear, darling mamma!" Eva listening hears, 

Eva leads her charge for rest, yet no tears. 

'Ts dis my mamma's room? Is mamma here?" 

If elegance of taste, beauty and grace. 

Rule in her home, in her own mamma's place, 

As here, 'tis proof her home was refined as her face 

Little Mai for the first time cheerfully smiles, 

Seems to forget her mamma for awhile. 

Her night robes were found all ready for use. 

The maid asked Mai, ''Which is your choice?" 

The lace was not smooth, she remembered, as when 

Her mamma had folded and placed it at home. 

The memory brought caused the child to moan, 

''Oh, darling mamma!" and burst into tears, 

Sobbing long, unconsoled, murmuring her fears 

That her mother would never "tum" and more. 

And "tis" her and love her as ever before ! 

When all was arranged quite ready for sleep. 

As if accustomed such good form to keep. 



28 



She folded her hands and bowed low her head, 
Murmured a prayer, then was ready for bed. 

As buds burst to bloom, when new spring is here, 

And bring to our homes, and our gardens their cheer. 

So little Mai's laughter, and joy, and play. 

Brighten and cheer the home of Judge Gray. 

Brought to Katie's dull spirits her lost wit again. 

To the quiet, staid mother pure love, and then 

Her darling in Heaven seemed with her again. 

lb Sophia a comforting, welcome pet, 

To Eva joy and contentment unknown as yet. 

To the crown of the Judge another rare pearl, 

He treasured them all in his own kingly worl I. 

A year had passed since the last farewell ; 

The hopes and doubts in that time who could tell ? 

Like carrier doves flying over the sea. 

With message too precious for strange eyes to see, 

Pass invisible tokens as on vaporous cloud. 

Bearing a secret hearts loving enshroud. 

Old Time was creeping, just creeping along, 

Paul thought, while waiting to meet the throng 

Of scholars and workers and milHonaires, 

And insignificant things like '' Teddy Bears !" 

No swifter had Time moved his slow length along 

With the Grays; each day the length seemed prolonge 1 

But all things may come to those who wait. 

And most surely to those of largest estate ! 

At last the Gray's noble guest was here. 

Noble in honor and talent, and near 

To a title by birth. The welcome was warm, 

Most gracious, sincere, and since he had come, 

Delight stalked about and gave its loud cheers, 

Confusion, scarce known in a home like this. 

Can find pardon now, if he makes it amiss. 

29 



At next morning's meal of Judge Gray and guest, 

Sat a cheerful circle at his behest, 

Eva and Kate, with ''pet'' Mai between, 

As lovely a picture as artist hath seen, 

The stately mother and loved Sophia near. 

The conversation, learned, Paul makes it clear. 

Bright were Kate's eyes, attractive her face. 

Her wit turned her words to wisdom and grace, 

A wit that charmed all, and gave pain to none. 

Like a gleam of blue sky, with storm clouds just gone, 

Eva's beauty and Kate's neither exceed, in truth, 

One was a Hebe, the goddess of youth. 

Because of her beauty as the fable declares ; 

Both with an angel some would compare. 

So charming and gifted was the circle there. 

Each hour had its guests, to smile and to bow. 

The young noble's fame and honor avowed ; 

In return for kindness and courtesy shown. 

Each day had its duties, to call them from home ; 

The moments were precious that Paul could claim, 

The time to meet him Eva scarcely could name, 

Obliged to be absent for friendly calls, 

Left Katie the duty of hostess to Paul. 

Eva's home was her world with this lovely charge, ' 

.She had sought content, life now seemed enlarged. 

She had asked herself if the pain she knew. 

Was really for Kate or self most true, 

Then she wrote on the page, renewing her test. 

Of the motto chosen for herself, the best, 

'"Tis life's truest joy another to bless." 

It shall be joy: for Katie it is best. 

There is joy in my faith that Heaven has sent, 

The motherless child for my care and content, 

'Tis mysterious proof of a Father's love. 

30 ""-^^ 



The thought consoled, and strengthened resolve. 
Then she added the lines : 

I seek the wisdom Thou canst give, 

The energy divine. 
The visions that incite the heart, 

As in my childhood's time. 

Her pen resumed, more earnest now she writes 
Not what her heart, but what her will indites. 
Dear, noble Paul, faithful and loyal friend, 
Tis best revealed, the life-work I intend ; 
Let Love approve and your grand soul defend. 
More rest for him, I shall gam, in a way 
Contentment and peace I might lose as a wife. 
And thus a shadow cast over his life. 
My plans and my purpose he surely knows. 
In companion for life he might oppose, 
The blooms we now gather, so fresh and bright, 
Would not be the same in a husband's sight. 
Alas ! in these thoughts how little attained ! 
To drive from my heart the love that remains, 
But more than all else for dear Katie's sake, 
This half-willing sacrifice God help me to make. 
As she turns the page her eyes again rest 
On her chosen motto, '"Tis joy others to bless." 
The duties of wifehood would give Kate joy, 
While choice for me hath more genial employ. 
Kate lean on Paul's arm in converse with friends 
Exultant and happy, he the time exteuvd 
Of her wit and beauty so proud and content 
Neither knows if the day or night were spent. 
No weariness felt and scarce need of sleep. 
With pride, love and content, who time can keep ! 
Eva closes her journal and locks it away. 
And to Paul, truth and duty forced her to say 

31 



Once again what Time and thought had conhrmed, 
Of the dreams of her childhood, as then discerned. 

At last, at last, the dreaded scene was o'er, 

Yet love and esteem intense as before, 

Honor to both ! that true friendship remained 

When love is denied and esteem is retained. 

Eva failed not in care and courtesy still, 

For Paul's pleasure, the time with diversity fills, 

And Katie alert, supreme in power. 

To suggest, to devise, impelled by the dower. 

The heavenly dower of a woman's love, 

The first that is born like the glow above. 

The Grays were to give a grand fete to Paul, 

The union of friends a pleasure to all, 

Forcing an efifort to apparent joy. 

His heart knew its anguish, its absent employ. 

The true loyal heart, as the weak and vain, 

Has its grief, but deeper, and longer remains. 

The Grays' old mansion, from basement to towers, 

Was brilHant with light and fragrant with flowers, 

A scene more enchanting in his palace home 

Paul thought as he gazed he never had known ; 

He never had seen more beauty, more grace, 

More elegant attire, or refinement of taste, 

Rooms more richly adorned or spacious or sweet. 

With the odor of blooms, tho' his home was complete. 

Surprise and amaze he had known here before, 

On some occasions, on American shore. 

Much honor was paid him, his name was known. 

Famed for his learning, not title alone, 

Among all the belles and beauties there, 

Paul, admiring, thought there were none so fair 

As his artist's eye with its culture roamed 

In covert wandering, about the room, 

32 



As Eva's spiritual beauty and talent known, 

With Kate's wit and grace charming alone. 

Those gathered about, pure converse to hear, 

The cultured and true and noblest were near; 

Even Paul from his sorrow was half beguiled 

By the pleasure he found in their converse and smiles ; 

The night's swift hours seemed never too long 

To that brilliant, delighted, merry throng. 

Morning light came at last through curtain shade. 

Gazing with smiles at the picture they made. 

A little star appears, by name unknown, 

''With name unknown? If worth a fig, it would have flown 

The listening world around, not hide its head 

If by any claim of commendation led. 

No able pen these days remains unknown ; 

Long since the charm of secrecy has flown," 

The speaker's cigar most attention claimed. 

''Don't care for a poem, ashamed of a name !" 

It was handed about as critics do, 

A page now and then is open to view. 

With indifference, then, the star seemed to set. 

But Fortune may smile when critics forget ; 

She sometimes appears in strangest of guise. 

To crush one to earth or raise to the skies. 

Thus this neglected new star shone out one day, 

Some curious mind had caught a ray. 

And called it genius or benevolence free. 

Through the one or the other the world may see 

The star shines again, faintly, but grows, 

In spite of all critics, in spite of all foes. 

After many conjectures and wonder expressed. 

The name of the author was sometimes guessed 

But never was known, and the critics rest. 

By Paul oft pursued, with memory's glow 

And tender thoughts, only he still doth know. 

33 



Too soon the time approached for Paul's return ; 

Of these sorrowful farewells all hearts have learned. 

Judge Gray alone, his kindly escort near, 

As hands pressed hands and eyes reveal a tear, 

A proof that two warm hearts true friendship know 

And love, that tender, noble souls bestow. 

Paul's absence at first so sadly depressed 

Each lonely one there, they welcomed night's rest, 

The home void of cheer, of mirth and of light. 

But morn will bring gladness after the night. 

And little Mai's voice a musical ring, 

Giving comfort to all, with the love she brings, 

Delighting the heart with her sweetness and glee, 

Wherever she stays there sunshine will be. 

Obedient and faithful, a blessing to all 

The household and hearts that are grieving for Paul. 

Eva's soul more tranquil, her time was now fraught 

With the comfort her care and charity brought 

To the suffering homes of the sick and poor, 

Who welcome her presence, and truly adore 

The sweet, gentle friend that comes to their door; 

Many who linger at the idler's shrine 

Are learning, from her where contentment to find. 

Paul is safely at home ; here are letters three 
That bring glad news for eager eyes to see, 
Conflicting emotions, how sudden they pass ! 
As glory a shadow may over us cast. 
After letters arrived 'twas plain to perceive 
The atmosphere changed, the Fear-Ghost leaves, 
Kate's eyes tell the tale ! Eva's the same. 
While the Judge and Madam ardently name 
The fine qualities, the genius of Paul, 
The hope and belief accepted by all, 

34 



That "fame, higher fame he is destined to reach, 
A fame that envy could never impeach !" 

Eva's ideals, her spiritual dreams 
Have exalted her life, have peace redeemed, 
Earnest in duties that charities bring, 
She knows the blessings that angels sing. 

The carrier doves or the letters, I mean. 
That constantly pass the countries between. 
Convey the best that earth or Heaven knows — 
K ''Love is best," that from a bosom flows. 

How busy old Time in his annual round ! 

Not a moment of rest hath the old monarch found 

In all the two years since Paul was here, 

And never was record of man more clear. 

Now brings him again, as news doth appear 

By gay voices, sounding far away and near, 

And dancing eyes, and fresh-cut flowers where 

His welcome feet and eyes familiar there. 

And heart that knows so well the loving hands. 

That fill the house with gifts from odorous lands, 

We wonder why, that blush on Katie's cheek, 

The blush and eyes that betray without speech. 

Betray her thoughts of joy, not yet attained 

To be shared by herself ! Her blush is to blame ! 

Is it real, she thinks, or only a dream ! 

Oh, what joy to her, if real it seem, 

A pleasure to Eva, tho' thoughts of the past 

Are too tender now, for a right to last ! 

For her pen, and life-work now require, 

The benevolent life her dreams inspire. 

It need not be told how Paul was received ; 
In greeting them all, not a heart was deceived : 

35 



With all the delight that was manifest there 

It must be confessed little shadows Hke air 

Linger still in their path, tho' fading afar, 

Will follow through life so silent sometimes 

They seem even now with their pleasures combined. 

Eva's ideals of Hfe, its sacred call, 

With powers unlike, tho' destined for all. 

For all with true means and powers enlarged. 

To accept life's highest appointed charge. 

She has followed by faith in ways designed, 

To enlarge the heart and exalt the mind. 

There were grand fetes, receptions and drives 

In honor of Paul and prospective bride, 

There were busy hands filled with verdure and bloom, 

And going and climbing and laughter and wit. 

There were artists discussing the colors that fit, 

Oh, the beauty and splendor ; such brilliant array ! 

At last all was ready for the bridal day. 

The guests have assembled; a glittering throng, 

That seemed to combine art, music and song, 

Beauty and talent, a brilliant array ; 

Of magnificent jewels a costly display! 

And culture and grace and charming smiles, 

A union rare of all charms and all styles. 

Was ever a bride more favored than Kate ! 
A native queen where crowns must wait, 
A vision of beauty stands by her side, - 

Sweet Eva, to whom much seemed denied 
But has gained what comes by generous deed. 
Has given relief to many in need. 
The joy that grateful love hath given 
And more than all the love of Heaven. 
The three were happy, Kate, Eva and Paul, 
But Eva, we thought, most blest of all. 

36 



SONG OF FREEDOM. 

Music comes from palace hall, 

Comes the same from cottage door, 

Seems to come from woodland glen, 
Song of freedom, o'er and o'er! 

Songs that stir a patriot's heart, 
Upward floating here and there. 

Songs of valor, peace and joy, 
Half of praise, and half of prayer. 

Swelling to a martial strain, 
Words repeated, oft the same. 

Tell of battles bravely won, 

Lauding, still, some hero's name. 

Love and honor, truth and rights, 
Thus defended everywhere, 

Love of home and country here. 
Freedom, freedom in the air! 

Love of women, pure and true, 
Whispered low in softer song, 

Love of learning, virtue, truth. 
Sweet the music doth prolong. 

Reverence for holy themes, 
Gratitude for blessings given. 

Strongest faith in country's good, 
Stronger still, in God and Heaven. 

Wealth and plenty constant bless 
Homes where love doth loyal dwell, 

Homes where arms of warriors stay^ 
Rusty now, but treasured well. 

37 



One dear flag is o'er us all, 

Seems its stars to stoop and bless. 
All alike, this freedom's flag, 

Greets in loyal, proud caress. 

O, what favored realm is this! 

O, what freedom dwelleth here ! 
Noble aims, all purpose high, 

And not a tyrant's voice is near! 



38 



SPEAK GENTLY. 

Speak gently to a heart bereaved, 

Its cords are well nigh riven. 
It weakly clings to worldly aims, 

But trembling, turns to Heaven. 
All that hath charmed is now so vain, 

Hath faded half from view. 
Grief hath unfolded, hath revealed. 

Vistas so strange and new ! 
From whence a tender voice and low, 

In tones familiar, sweet, 
''Love still doth live as lives the soul 

Where loved ones joyful meet." 



39 



EACH BRINGETH BLESSINGS. 

All nature some new blessing brings each day, 
The bud unfolding gives a perfect leaf, 

And then the beauty of the fragrant flower, 
And grain within the sheaf. 

The sun revolving round his central way 

Quick folds aside night's veil of woven mists 

As he salutes with radiant smile the day. 
Each blushing rose is kissed. 

Like nature, some leave blessings in their way, 
Their lives ennobled by their gracious deeds. 

Like golden clouds that seem to ope the way 
Where angel pathway leads. 

By graces undefined, by friendly mien. 

By gentle word, or noble thought expressed. 

A sweet, refining influence they leave. 
Thus other lives are blessed. 



40 



WRITTEN IN EARLY CHILDHOOD. 

In all life's diversity of time, 

With varied tinted gleams, 
None lie within the whole life's shrine 

Like days of early dreams. 

Love is so sweet, hearts so sincere, 

In this bright, joyous morn, 
And Fancy brings such faitr wreaths here. 

Smiling, our brows adorn. 

If shadows darken any day. 

The sunny gleams are near, 
And always seem so pleased to stay, 

And after clouds, more clear. 

Sometimes the sad-toned word "Good-bye" 

Falls heavy on the heart, 
A tear sometimes is lurking by. 

But love bids it depart. 

It is the time when mother-love 

Is joy and heaven to us. 
As angels know God's care above. 

So childhood knows its trust. 

Sweet hope, with golden colored wings, 

And happy flight, we pray, 
Thou to our mother's life will bring 

Thy choicest gifts each day. 



41 



THE CLOUD THAT PASSED. 

The cloud was there, whichever way I turned, 

Beyond I could not see ; 
Each sense as dulled, save such as inward burned 

To feel, to love to be ! 
And I alone, to long — to wait in vain 
For dear, glad steps that would not come again ! 

It was not day to me, nor was it night. 

So dim were sun and star ; 
Nor in my heart or out one ray of light. 

And Hope and Heaven so far ! 
I asked no blessing! none, indeed, could be 
That would not bring my darling back to me. 

Then struggling Faith reached forth her tender hand 

Revealing light to me; 
And lo ! how near the dear lost one I stand ! 

His radiant face I see, 
Restful and blissful with the Father near; 
Peaceful I wait, I would not call him here. 



42 



TO ONE WHO WILL' UNDERSTAND. 

The sweet, young Spring has come and passed away, 

Bringing her gifts of leaf and bloom and song. 
Has spread her mantle all along the way, 

As she our joy forever would prolong. 
Then Summer, faithful as her sister Spring, 

Has ready waited for her constant round, 
Full laden with the treasures she would bring. 

Bright garlands for the heads already crowned. 
And Autumn, gorgeous in her ample train. 

Bearing her sheaves already for our store, 
Have ever faithful come in sun or rain 

To lay the needed offerings at our door. 
Have we, dear love, a record true, like these ? 

Since seven years, our sacred troth was given, 
Has your heart brought all that it could of ease 

And pleasure, all that it promised Heaven ? 
Has it been thine to study woman's ways. 

Thus learn by lighter things to give her joy. 
To know the sweeter and the darker phase 

Of woman's heart — the trifles that annoy? 
Have I been faithful with my gifts to thee? 

Has all the wealth of love my heart has known. 
As loyal been — as warm as thine for me ? 

Its better thoughts, its dreams been all thine own ? 
Have I for thee felt wifely care and pride? 

Forgotten self in anxious thought for thee ? 
Have I, myself, accustomed ease denied, 

That rest and comfort thy companion be ? 
If nay, some tender germs are withered now ! 

And He all scattered in the way passed by. 
Alas! we cannot teach each other how 

To save these buds from dying where they He ! 
But from each generous act and kindly word, 

43' 



And truth and honor ever best of all, 
From tender breathings of the spirit heard, 

Lighting the heart, as sunbeams when they fall, 
May fair, perennial blooms, that do not die — 

Mark well the sacred nuptial time. 
Let pledges new, and prayers ascend on high, 

That noblest life be thine and mine. 



44 



CONTENTMENT. 

Oh. soul, ungrateful, if thou canst not see 

Through earthly veil life woven day by day, 
How much of good in this fair world for thee, 

Tho', darker threads the texture cross each way. 
Thou yet will see the sheen 
If thou but look between. 

Oh soul, delighted, if the good and true 

In man, the beautiful in earth and sky. 
In full significance appear in view. 

If seeing thus, glad soul, thy realm be high. 
Above thy shadowy care, 
Thou'lt find contentment there. 

Be grateful, oh, my soul, for all that's thine 

To make life glad, direct thy actions fair, 
For every impulse good and thought sublime 
For power to praise, and power for prayer, 
And thank thy God above 
For blessed power to love. 



45 



A NOBLE LIFE IS ONE'S BY RIGHT. 

Life is not given us in vain, 

With powers to do and bear. 
From frailest bud to buried grain, 
From blade of grass to drop of rain. 

All have of work a share. 

Youth has its hopes, and strength and trust. 

And what may not youth do? 
If to one's self, and others just, 
Willing to toil, as toil one must, 

If to life's duties true. 

A noble life is woman's right, 

Her work to love allied. 
With faith and prayer, and mental light. 
With purpose high and growing might, 

What needs she these beside? 

God has endued true womanhood 

With graces all her own. 
Man, for a purpose great and good. 
But woman may, as woman should, 

Reach noblest heights alone. 



46 



SOON WE SHALL KNOW. 

Soon shall we know if welcome smile 

May greet us there, 
When at the gate we bow the while, 

In fear and prayer. 

Shall know how great our Father's love. 

If signs He give. 
That we may joyous enter in 

And pardoned live. 

Then, early waking, shall we know, 

What earth ne'er solved, 
If union there, that love here wrought, 

Be there dissolved. 

If at our side dear ones appear 

With voice that charms. 
Again we know the fond embrace, 

Of tender arms. 

Oh, heaven, at last! with loved ones there, 

A realm sublime. 
And life renewed and never grief. 

Through endless time. 



47 



CHARITY. 

The world speeds on triumphant mid its stars, 

Stops not to look within the wretched door 

Of toiling, downcast, hopeless ones withm. 

Grants no relief for poverty or sin, 

If sin there be, or virtue needing aid, 

la not some burden on the conscience laid ? 

Do not some sounds of grief shame our delay? 

From homes luxurious, with heavy purse, 

Is there no voice of censure, like a curse? 

Can one find true repose, be joyous, free. 

Who does not lift some burden, he may see 

By others borne, lighten some path for those 

Who fainting, sink beneath life's heavy woes? 

Great hearts there are, and willing, generous hands, 

Who find the stricken ones in every land, 

God bless them all who heed the bitter cry ! 

God send His angels with a message straight 

From His great fount of love, and they shall wait 

Close at the door of him of noble deeds. 

Whose charity supplies a sufiferer's needs. 



48 



OH, WHISPER AS YE PASS. 

Oh, whisper as ye pass, swift flying years, 

Tell what our souls forever yearn to know ! 

Is there a realm where mortal pain shall cease? 

Where fear and sin and sorrow do not come ? 

Say, if the love that makes earth-life so sweet 

Goes with us all, and lives forever there, 

In sweet companionship with souls congenial 

Will hands clasp eager hands? And fond lips meet? 

Tell, if that realm hath beauty like our own. 

In the enchanting time of leaf and bloom, 

And rippling brook, and mating song of bird, 

And Summer's jeweled eve, and fragrant morn, 

And glory of the sky, divinely decked, 

Will one dear Father love and bless us all ? 

And joy to know His children gathered there? 

Oh, say, will love like His leave any child 

In far off realm to sorrow for His care, 

To mourn forever that, He loves them not, 

To know there is between the dreary place 

And angel wing, and gracious parding voice 

No path ! no light ; on which but darkness falls ! 

The sweet, fair blossoms at my feet look up, 

Content, in rest, the Father's love to prove 

By their own beauty, life, growth and grace 

Beyond all power of man, science or art; 

The climbing trees, the twining, new-clad vine, 

The smiling fields grateful for Summer's sun, 

All proclaim *They shall live again, again." 

Oh, years ! have ye not learned the mystery yet, 

In all your length of time and constant flight? 

We listen oft and half we hear in notes 

That Nature sings, and sings with voice content 

49 



And glad, "Yes, we shall surely live again," 
And faith and hope and love murmur repose 
Sometimes in fear and doubt, sometimes in trust. 
Sometimes triumphant as the spirit soars 
To catch a tone, inspiring, a tone from heaven. 
Our spirit hears, we shall, all animate 
With youth renewed and spirit beauty gained, 
With life and soul, and love, and work exalted, 
Rise to perpetual joy and love, and life. 
To meet and greet the dear ones gone before, 
To met the Father's welcome, gracious smile. 
Learn all the beautiful and good of earth. 
In the faintest emblem of the glory there. 
Will cease forever, pain and sin and grief, 
Will live forever love, gratitude and bliss. 



50 



COME, MY HERO. 

In and out, the sun is smiling, 
Through the grove, bird-songs beguiling, 
Buds half asleep, and full blown roses 
Cast their perfume on the air. 
Till the sweetness of the morning. 
And the blossoms own adorning, 
Make our "palace'' heavenly fair. 

'Neath my feet the mosses growing. 
Freshly bathed by brooklet flowing. 
Shadows dancing with the sunlight. 
Charmed by music of the wood. 
Seems the mystic fairies coming. 
As they seemed when here you stood! 

Dreams foretell again your coming. 
Sounds I hear of martial dreaming. 
Voices loud, in stern command. 
Let not thought of glory win thee 
From the triumph that is best. 
You, in silent hours, are longing 
For a peace not war's belonging, 
For a happier gain and rest, 

Shun the web that pride is weaving. 
Scorn the glory oft deceiving, 
I will weave a chaplet for you — 
Oak and pine, their language true. 
Pinus strobus shall be twining 
With the blossoms, thus defining. 
How a patriot's deeds I view. 



S^ 



Come, my hero, I am waiting, 
Where the birds are singing, mating. 
Where I know thy love would lead thee, 
Where thy rest would be complete. 
Morning brings her own gifts, smiling. 
Evening vies with charms beguiling, 
Where I would my hero meet. 



52 



SONNET. 

When radiant youth hath blessings all its own, 

Indififerent oft to wise and tender tone, 

Or knows what most its young life needs. 

The joyous heart scarce hears, or willing heeds, 

So full of joy are visions early known, 

Dreams that young hearts to truth concede. 

When youth and joys of youth have flown 

And Time, by years, hath taught what age most needs, 

When one by one, life's treasures all have flown 

Where Heaven and angels beckoning lead, 

Oh, then, the heart hath learned its need 

Of Heaven's love, and tender human tone. 

Of loyal friends. The heart is then alone ! 

Longing in faith to go where angels lead. 



53 



AMERICANS TRIUMPH IN 1893, 

Unfurl! unfurl! proud banners, now; 

With every added star 
The nations all our triumph know, 

And hail us from afar. 

Art lays her trophies at our feet, 

And Science adds her power ; 
Our unmatched skill and force complete 

The glory of the hour 

The force that's born of patriot's love, 

Of early Christian prayer, 
Of blessings granted from above, 

In triumph or despair. 

Our fathers taught the lesson well. 

Who conquered tyrants first ; 
And since, from every hill and dell, 

A patriot's song hath burst ! 

In all the years— these hundred years 

Of growth in wealth and art, 
Learning and science— this appears 

A magic year apart. 

Like Egypt's statues, 't will remain. 

Mysterious emblem, here; 
Yet proof of progress unattained 

If freedom be not dear. 

In awe the world doth wait, amazed 

At our stupendous plan. 
Which thus hath lit a mystic blaze 

That sea and earth can span. 

54 



The loyal women who have shown 
How noble work and thought, 

And highest purposes have grown, 
That woman's brain hath wrought. 

Let every star send forth its light. 
As the flag doth heavenward float, 

Emblazoning each woman's right 
To work, to rule, or vote. 

The oldest nations had their queens, 
Who ruled by blood and pride. 

All virtuous women here are queens ; 
All royally allied. 

Our scepter — learning, truth, and love; 

Our patriot birth our pride; 
Our crown — if ours — from heaven above. 

We ask no crown beside. 



55 



TO THE DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN 

REVOLUTION. 

(Prize poem written in Washington, D. C, on the occa- 
sion of the "Cabel reception given to the Daughters of 
the American Revolution and Sons of the Revolution/' 
1893, Washington, "Cabel Institute/') 

Daughters of heroes, from North and the South, 
The East and the West, clasping hands. 
Each born where our fathers reared liberty's flag. 
Where blood made sacred our lands. 

Where courage, endurance, and unsheathed sword 
Brought freedom to country and home ; 
The freedom of thought and freedom of will, 
And right is the king we enthrone. 

Where the foremost of heroes ere battle fought 
First lifted his soul in prayer. 
Who trusted no sovereign but God and the right. 
And trusting found victory there. 

Thus a free land was ours with its mystical stars, 
And the glory that gallantry won, 
A realm reaching far from the North frozen sea. 
To the blossom-decked land of the sun. 

Its thousands of miles stretching thus to the sea. 
With mountain and river and plain ; 
And verdure and bloom, and mines full of gold, 
Where never a tyrant shall reign ! 



56 



As magical fair as the Spaniard had dreamed, 
Though the fount of De Leon unseen, 
For beauty and youth and perennial bloom 
Have filled all the way that's between. 

A century of freedom our country has crowned 
With the years that have come and flown. 
By vigor of thought, and vigor of hand, 
A glorious Nation has growrb! 

While Art has beguiled with her rarest charm, 

And Science examined each star. 

And self-crowned wealth trailed her glittering robes, 

There's a halo more sacred afar. 

More precious to each living patriot's heart. 
And allied to America's fame. 
This halo unchanged, undimmed by time. 
That illumines each hero's name. 

Her daughters are here with evergreen wreaths, 
To crown them anew every year 
As the daughters of old crowned their victors there, 
We sacredly crown ours here. 

For heroes of Lexington' garlands we twine ; 
For Charleston's and Norfolk's we weave ; 
For Trenton's brave warriors the laurel as green ; 
Not one will these true daughters leave. 

Bright chaplets are ready for Bennington's too, 
And Yorktown,' and famed Brandywine; 
For the good French fleet with its gallant arms 
With the laurel its fruit combine. 



57 



With hands that are grateful, weave in the stairs^ 
For the garland that he shall wear 
Who valiantly came with his true French sword, . 
When 'twas victory or despair. 

Thy work, faithful daughters, is noble as wise, 
The soul with its love is aglow, 
A nation will hail thee ! thine own hearts approve, 
And thy deeds through the centuries go. 



58 



'jm soiiio 



One copy del. to Cat. Div. 



fm 30 jfeiw 



